8 hours ago - Sports

Messi, Tim Ream named to squad for MLS All-Star Game in Charlotte

Ashley Mahoney

From left: Tim Ream, Leo Messi and Son Heung-Min. Photo: Cory Knowlton/ISI Photos/ISI Photos via Getty Images; Michael Pimentel/ISI Photos/ISI Photos via Getty Images; Melinda Meijer/ISI Photos via Getty Images

The first 11 players have been named for the MLS All-Star Game, including superstar Lionel Messi and Charlotte FC and United States men's national team defender Tim Ream.

Why it matters: This will be the first time Charlotte has hosted the MLS All-Star Game and Ream is Charlotte FC's first All-Star. The festivities are expected to pack the city's hotels and draw thousands of fans. Organizers are also hoping to capitalize on buzz from the World Cup taking place across North America June 11- July 19.

State of play: The MLS All-Star Game will take place on July 29 at 8pm at Bank of America Stadium. The MLS All-Stars will face All-Stars from Mexico's top league, LIGA MX.

How it works: Players were chosen through MLS fans, player and media votes. The lineup, which was announced June 5, includes:

Goalkeeper Brian Schwake (Nashville SC)
Defenders Anthony Markanich (Minnesota United), Mbekezeli Mbokazi (Chicago Fire), Tim Ream (Charlotte FC) and Andy Najar (Nashville SC)
Midfielders Sebastian Berhalter (Vancouver Whitecaps), Zavier Gozo (Real Salt Lake) and Hany Mukhtar (Nashville SC)
Forwards Hugo Cuypers (Chicago Fire), Son Heung-Min (LAFC) and
Leo Messi (Inter Miami)

What's next: The full roster will be announced at a later date. The remaining 15 roster spots will include 13 players chosen by MLS All-Star/Charlotte FC head coach Dean Smith, plus two players selected by MLS commissioner Don Garber.

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Messi, Tim Ream named to squad for MLS All-Star Game in Charlotte

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